Renaissance Pittsburgh Hotel Reclaims Origins
Marriott Property Overlooks Allegheny and PNC Park
Aug 29, 2009
Called the Robert Fulton Building when it first opened, the Renaissance Pittsburgh Hotel had been designed by architect Grosvenor Atterbury as a hotel, but instead was used as an office building, a nightclub, and even a Veteran’s hospital during World War II. At the turn of the current century, Sage Hospitality decided to renovate the structure and reopen it as a hotel. Marriott then purchased the building and decided to launch its rebirth in conjunction with the opening of the PNC Park baseball stadium, just across the Allegheny River.
Renovations included restoration of the Alabama, Vermont, and Italian marble inside the building. Nearly 300 pounds of coal dust were extracted from the rotunda above the lobby. Mosaic tile on the ceiling was cleaned and new pieces were made to replace those that had fallen over the years. As for the lobby floor, most of it had to be replaced, because it had worn away almost completely in places over the years.
Luxury Lodging in Downtown Pittsburgh
Guests who arrive by automobile might have had a difficult time finding the Renaissance. It’s tucked between a couple of theaters, and it’s easy to miss. Professionally bedecked doormen meet drivers and provide valet services. Once inside, staff waits behind the black granite registration desk. Before heading to the elevators, a quick look around will be paused by the sight of a grand staircase, comfortable seating, and a rich-looking lounge.
The 300 guest rooms at the Renaissance are flooded with light from the huge windows. Many of these windows offer a view of the Allegheny River and PNC Park beyond. King-sized beds, business desks, LCD TVs, and iPod-friendly stereo systems are standard.
Pampering for Pirates Fans
After settling in, visitors can head down to the street level and walk across the Roberto Clemente Bridge to take in a Pittsburgh Pirates baseball game at PNC Park. The stroll across the bridge is pleasant and huge potted flower pots line both sides of the span. When the game is over, forget about traffic. The hotel is just a short walk back across the bridge.
The Renaissance Pittsburgh Hotel is a popular wedding venue, as well, with 10,000 square feet of banquet/meeting space. Meeting room names honor Pittsburgh greats, such as August Wilson, Mary Cassatt, Henry Mancini, and George Benson. Since the hotel is in the Pittsburgh Cultural District, all staff members pick their favorite play or performer’s name to be added to their name tag. It makes great fun to check out designations, such as Rent or the Lion King.
For personal or business lodging, the Pittsburgh Renaissance Hotel is worth checking into. For event planners, the Renaissance’s banquet and meeting facilities are worth consideration.
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